Kudos to Baucsh & Lomb

Way back in the day, in 5th grade, I was told that I was going blind and needed to wear glasses. Okay, I wasn't going blind - but I was in need of glasses! I remember going to the Optometrist and picking out some SNAZZY green glasses. For all of those folks who remember Sally Jesse Raphel - think of her red glasses, but make them green. Pretty! I spent the next 5 years wearing glasses. Finally by the time high school rolled around; I was done! Glasses get dirty. Glasses ruin pictures. Glasses make you look studious (we can all agree; I was certainly not that person!). For my birthday, my parents made me an appointment to get contacts. This might have been the most exciting birthday present so far up to this point.

Upon being fitted for my contacts; I left proud knowing that my new contacts were being ordered and I was on my way to being a new girl. My contacts came in; and I went straight to the bathroom and spent the next 30 minutes attempting to put a contact in just one eye. Yes, you read that right. It took me forever to get the hang of the perfect technique to touching my own eye ball and popping on my new vision.

I've switched contact solutions since then, let's face it - they all do the exact same thing. I'd really just get whatever was on sale and the best bargin. The biggest headache: not really being able to see how much solution you truly had left. Shaking the bottle, you think - okay, I have enough for one more night. Squeeeeeze it into the holder - you get 1/2 a holder. Darn it! Wouldn't it be amazing if you could actually see how much solution you truly had left and when you were in dire needs of going to the store and picking up a new bottle?

(Drum Roll, please)

THANK YOU, BAUSCH & LOMB! You have officially made my life easier; and I can SEE in the bottle now how much solution is left! It officially took a company a million years to come up with this concept! I'm happy to announce: I am now an advocate for Re-Nu Fresh drops! No more generic. No more Opti-Free. No more Complete Multi-Purpose. HELLLOOOOO RE-NU!!

I MUST Have Been Good This Year!

I love Christmas, but I mean - who does?! Christmas is all about spending time with your family and continuing family traditions which have been in your family for years! Christmas also means that it is the deciding factor if you have been good or naughty through the year. I always thought of myself as being on the "good list," but certainly understand that some years in my past were questionable. This year, Santa proved himself to be amazing as ever and virtually gave me everything that was on my list! I cannot tell you any of my past years where this has happened! My favorite gifts (in no particular order!) are as follows:

Heating Mattress Pad: no chance is showing you a picture, because let's face it - it's not that exciting! But, for this girl who is always shivering when she gets in bed and loves being covered by blankets - I didn't want an electric blanket. I just wanted a electric mattress pad to sleep on top of. How amazing does that sound!? I cannot wait to put it on my bed!

From my Little Sister: All I wanted was a new Estee Lauder Eyeliner. Just one would have been fine. I love my black eyeliner that my Mom had given me a while back and honestly became my favorite brand. So, on my list - one little stick of eyeliner. To my surprirse, I open up a big box that says Estee Lauder on it and it is ALL of this! 4 lipsticks (which I will NEVER use and will go to my Mom for Mother's Day. ha ha), eyelash primer, mascara, 15 eye shadows, 3 blushes, eye makeup remover, a few makeup brushes, a luggage case, makeup carrier AND THREE EYE LINERS!! Whhhat?! I love my sister.

Again, from my Little Sister: I walked into the Gap a few weeks ago and saw this scarf. I saw it, but really needed to focus on being myself some work pants and/or shirts NOT a scarf for myself. After going home, I realized that someone needed that scarf and I would buy it for someone for Christmas. When I went back to the Gap, it was gone. Every Gap in Columbus, sold out. I went to Cleveland and I was too lazy to check the Gap in Hudson... so I just let it go. Honestly, I say I wanted it for someone else - but I would have kept it for myself. Shhh! Low and behold, I open up a box and BAM! There it is! The amazingly soft purple and gray Blanket Scarf from the Gap! My sister was on the verge of beating me because everytime I was with her - I wanted to go and buy it. I almost bought it, but something told me not to buy it. Thankfully, I didn't! Isn't she pretty!?

Once again, from my sister: she gets mad at me year after year after year because she claims I always make her look bad with the gifts I buy her. I tend to spend the most on her, but no where do I expect her to spend the same amount or near it on me! I will say - this year, she did great! She knows I am big on my cooking lately, and to follow my makeup and scarf - she bought me a few kitchen items would I cannot WAIT to use! My favorite: The Martha Stewart 5-Piece Grating Set! It has 3 different types of graters! I can slice, I can shread or I can grate and it all goes into a handy dandy little container with cup measurements on the side. Ohhhh-- ahhhh!!

Seriously, just when I think my Christmas cannot get any better - this little baby comes out of a box. My Kenmore Elite Standing Mixer. YAYYY, SANTA! (Cough, Cough - Mom & Dad!). I am beginning to think with all of the cooking and baking I've been getting into - Recruiting isn't my calling and I should open up a restaurant or bakery! I am sooo excited to get using my mixer and am still determining what would be the best thing to make to start off with!

Thank you, Santa for making all of my wishes come true!! I promise that in 2010, I will be a good girl again so you can bring me everything on that list too!

Becca's Year in Review: 2009

Typically, when January 1st hits - I make a New Years Resolution and by February 1st, I will have failed miserable at keeping it. In an effort make me a happier girl, I made the decision to keep this one that I felt was one of the most important to my life as it currently is. The resolution: To have more fun! I told myself on January 1st, 2009 - I will find things fun to do every month (minimum of one time, but more is a bonus!). I have to say, I feel I did pretty good at keeping this resolution and I do feel a little bit better about myself and what currently is happening in my life - just by making a conscious effort to get myself out there more and do things to make ME happy! This may end up sounding like a Christmas Letter; but that's okay!

January: This is a very important month - since the first day of the year starts off with a bang with my birthday. In the past, my New Year's festivities were minimal. When I say minimal, I mean non-existant. It's sad really. My birthday falls on one of the biggest party days of the year and I literally never had anything really to look forward to when it comes to having nights out or what not. I don't know why, I just didn't. 2009 New Years, a group of friends and I went out to a very fancy dinner, and brought in the New Year with some wine and fun. I'm glad to say that for the first time in a LONG time - I had a great New Year's Eve! Additionally, my friends surprised me with a great birthday surprise! January marked my first visit ever to a Psychic! I've always wanted to go, but was scared to death for them to tell me I'd be hit by a bus tomorrow. Thankfully, it was not in my future. Really, hardly anything has come true - but the experience itself was fun and I am glad I did it!

**Friends at New Years Dinner at M in Columbus.**

February: I hate February. It is a hurtful month for those people like myself who are single and have the constant reminder of Valentine's Day. I'll be honest: nothing fun happened in February. The month is the devil, and personally I think it should be deleted from the calendar all together.

March: I was lucky enough to travel for work and went to a new place, Niagara Falls, New York. Granted, it wasn't the most glamourous of business trips - but it was a lot of fun and I was able to meet a co-worker for the 1st time in person! We had a great time getting to know each other and spent an evening wasting some money at the Seneca Niagara Casino. Love it!

**Freezing my you-know-what-off at the Falls!**

April: Birthdays were a big thing this year, and my friends and I decided it would be fun to have little birthday surprises for each other. After my trip to Niagara Falls, I thought it would be fun to take a friend there for her birthday. I mean, road trips, casino buffets and gambling... what's not to love?! So- off we went for a weekend up north and even crossed the boarder to Canada for some excitement. We live on the edge, what can I say? It's amazing to think that when I was there in March, there was ice so thick you couldn't even see the railing to the falls. In April, it was warm and short sleeves and capris were perfect!

**View of the Falls in the Springtime**

May: The Warren Family ventured to Alaska for a trip to see my cousin Keya graduate high school and enjoy time with family. Alaska is truly a great place to visit if you ever get the itch, I highly recommend it. I am much more of a girl to go exploring rather than sitting on a beach and looking like a beached whale. So - vacations to places such as this is perfect for me! We did so much car riding and saw so many great places, it was a lot of fun. Especially to see family, who we don't get to see as often as any of us would like!

**Trip to Homer, Alaska**

June: We started the month of June off by celebrating a friend's birthday in Hocking Hills and camping. I haven't been one for camping, but honestly - just thinking about going really excited me. Remember, I'm trying new things! We had a great time, for the most part. During this time of month, I was struggling with my gall bladder and virtually lived in pain or fear of pain majority of the time. I was so very thankful that my attacks did not mess with camping and instead hit 12 hrs before we left, and 12 hrs after we got home. Thank goodness! After my fabulous day of hiking the hills, and spending 2 hrs attempting to build a campfire - things couldn't have been better. The following week, I finally found that I had gall stones and I needed my gall bladder removed. IT'S ABOUT TIME! 7 years later! So - I am happy to report that June was a great month for the fact that I can now eat anything without living in the fear that I will have an attack later. Woo hoo! Granted, I've gained about 23948209842 lbs from "experimenting" with the foods I couldn't eat before. (Can you guess what my 2010 Resolution should be by that sentence??)


July: Honestly, this was one of my most favorite months in 2009! We decided to surprise Courtney with a trip to Chicago for her birthday! We found a great deal on a plane ticket and we decided to venture off for a day and spend one night out there. We ventured around the city, had a great steak dinner at Gene & Georgetti's and all around had a great time. Additionally, July was my 10th High School Class Reunion where I reconnected with great friends and have had some great times with them following the reconnection. I even had a surprise visitor come, Lisa Beck, who I worked with closely for the first 2 yrs at Cardinal. She came to Columbus from Sacramento, and it was great to see her- even if it was only for one day!

**Posing with Obama at the Sears Tower**

August: Started the month off with a bang at the Dublin Irish Festival. Loved the Bailey's, loved the music, loved the food, loved the people! Not much more to say other than had a great time! August was also a sad month to counteract the fun. Big changes were mad at work and I lost majority of my team due to changes. I rolled from being an HP-eHRO employee, to a Cardinal Health employee. Where the changes are very positive, and I can understand the reasons, it was still hard to say goodbye to such great friends! Thank goodness for a Martini Party to help with my sarrows. :)

**Mary, Courtney & Becca at the Dublin Irish Festival**

September: Another great month! Earlier in the year, my dear cousin Rhiannon announced that she was expecting a wee one. Music to my ears! Typically, various September's some of our family head's back to Seattle for the Western Washington fair. (Mom loves the fair!) Rhiannon had her Baby Shower the same time we were in town so we could attend. I had such a great visit catching up with one of my childhood best friends, Jessica, and her girls - Ally & Kamdyn. I was able to spend lots of time with my cousins Jaclyn & Rhiannon. As well as spend time with other family members I miss terribly! All in all, the trip was great and I loved every minute of it! During September, I also ventured down to the Short North in Columbus and for the first time - went to the Greek Festival. A blast! Would love to go back every year, it was a lot of fun!

*The proud parents to be! Kenny & Rhiannon at the family dinner during our Seattle trip.**

**Caught up with some other family members during our trip!**

October: Things are starting to get busy in the Fall! Between Michael Jackson's movie coming out and seeing that 3 times, having a small Halloween Get-Together at our apartment among other things, I was one busy bee! I was able to meet a dear co-worker for the 1st time with his trip to Dublin, and it was a great night! It is so great to meet someone for the 1st time and have worked with them for years. I also ventured north in October and attended a Wine Train, Halloween themed. Riding a train, eating snacks and being served wine - nothing could be better!

November: Oh lord, November was BUSY! However, a lot of fun too! Before somethings started coming around - the most exciting thing for me was that New Moon was coming out in the movie theater! I mean, that made my month enough already - but then a few more things came about which made it even more fun. Took a road trip to Peoria, Illinois to watch my dear cousin run in a cross country event. Poor girl came down with mono among other things, and wasnt able to run. However, we did get to spend time with her and my uncle - and that was fantastic! I love seeing family! Thanksgiving was great, Black Friday was amazing, and the HR Columbus Blue Jackets event was a BLAST! It is so nice to attend these fun events with co-workers, and mingle about!

**Steph, Callie, Susie & I at the Columbus Blue Jackets game!**

Finally, the last month of the year - December. I love Christmas Time! Now that we are Cardinal employees - we were invited to all of the great Holiday parties. We were able to attend 2 parties, and that was GREAT! Being that we are all Cardinal Health employees now, it really brings a sense of togetherness! As I do every year, I volunteered again for the Delaware County People in Need Holiday Clearinghouse - as Toyland Chair Person yet one more time! We had a great turn out and my trusty volunteers were great as usual! We handed out toys to 555 kids (Newborn-9 yrs), and everything went perfectly. Hopefully those toys bring a smile to some kids face this year! Additionally, I went to see the Columbus Ballet perform the Nutcracker, and saw Jim Brickman in concert in Cleveland. Nothing more perfect than a marriage proposal at a Jim Brickman concert... it was very romantic and of course brought a tear to my eye.

The most important thing of 2009: The birth of Cohen Patrick Brovold. I love this baby with all my heart! I couldn't be more happy for my dear cousin to experience something as great as this! Baby Cohen was born on December 10th, and is absolutely perfect. I love this baby as if he were my own. I cannot wait to start of 2010 with a trip to Seattle to meet him in person, and to give my dear cousin a great big hug!

Wishing everyone a great 2010, and hope that your Holiday Season is better than you can ever imagine!

My Happy Place

A few years ago, I was provided a deal from a friend that I didn't have to think long and hard about - and went with my gut and agreed. At the time, I was a constant babysitter and was always running around to different families and watching some very special children. One of those families, The Dunsmore's. I love the Dunsmore Family. I love them for various reasons, but I love them even more for offering me a piece of furniture if I would babysit for free a time or two. Finding out which piece of furniture it was, I was so happy I couldn't even see straight.


Everyone: Meet my red chair. Red Chair, meet everyone! This is my red chair, and this is a big part of my happiness in life! I know, it sounds silly - but it's true! Let me give you the Top 10 Reasons as to why this amazing piece of furniture makes me happy.

10.) It's from the Dunsmore's; and what isn't to love about the Dunsmore's!? It provides me with a memory of this fantastic family since they moved to Alabama and oh how I miss those boys! (Joe & Sheryl too!) **Did I mention that my little piece of heaven was free?**
9.) I bought a brand new table when I moved into my apartment over a year ago. I have yet to eat at my table but instead my ottoman is a GREAT table for my meals.
8.) The view to the tv is FANTASTIC from my chair. I mean, I cannot explain how clear Ellen is when I watch her show that is DVR'd daily. (She's giving a Beatles Library right now that I am pretty sure my Dad needs for Christmas).
7.) Looking up: the heat vent. Ahhhhh, yes!
6.) IF I took naps, this would be the place I'd sleep! I can remember one time when I spent all night in the ER due to the ever famous gall bladder attacks. The next day was horrible; and I was truly exhausted from the pain pills they prescribed me. This red chair was the best nap I've EVER taken in my life. I can stretch out. I can hang my legs over the arms. I can sit back and let my head and drool fall.
5.) Directly to the left corner on the floor sits my: "Grandma Basket." This is the basket that once was the perfect place to keep my Christmas Card supplies during the Holiday Season, but has accumulated various other things to keep me occupied, or to promote laziness. In the basket you can find: markers, cds, address book, and some random cords (all important!). I really think it's missing yarn and my ability to knit.
4.) It's formed to my body. I can sit down and essentially melt into the fabric and into the same place that I sit when I sit here. (Yes, I am sitting here right now. Surprised?)
3.) I can view my sister's beautiful face in the corner of her green couch directly across from me. She can see me, I can see her - and guess what - we are both comfortable. She typically falls asleep in her spot around 8pm. (Shhhh, she's sleeping there at the moment!)
2.) It is equal distance to the fridge for my stock of Diet Coke, as to the bathroom when the Diet Coke goes through me.
1.) No matter how bad a day I could have, coming home to my red chair - it doesn't judge me, it doesn't speak ill of me, and instead loves me for who I am! I can sit, watch tv, and cry watching a sappy show and my chair will always love me the same! My red chair is my happy place, hands down!

Don't you wish you had a happy place like mine?

Becca's Thanks

This Thanksgiving proved to be very different than any Thanksgiving I've ever experienced. Honestly, I think it probably was the most out of the norm Thanksgiving for my immediate family. It was the first Holiday that I have spent without my Mom being present and having a big meal at my parents house. My Mom spent her Thanksgiving up in Seattle helping with gathering up belongings and assisting in getting my great Aunt's house ready to be put up on the market. Being that when Skip passed away, my Mom has felt alone because she was not able to attend the funeral. So, going to have Thanksgiving at her house one last time with her side of the family was something that she really needed for closure.

Because my Mom was in Seattle, that left Kate, my Dad and I to have Thanksgiving all by our lonesome. When my Mom first decided to go to Seattle, I offered to hold Thanksgiving at our apartment. Typically, I cooked the turkey every year at my parents - and I knew I could handle making some mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. However, Neil decided that we were going out and no one was going to do dishes. Hey, I'm not going to argue with this decision! A lot less things for me to do.

The entire Thanksgiving Day - I felt a little empty without my Mom being present. I knew that she was out and having a great time with her family, but I realized that I do not want to spend Holidays without having all of my family there. Since we moved away from Seattle in 1990, we have spent majority of our Holiday's alone - just the 4 of us. Every now again, we have guests popping in and out to spend the Holiday's with us - but that is few and far between. We have become very dependent on each other and because we haven't had those years of spending them with a big family.

Through this Thanksgiving Holiday, I am giving a huge Thanks for my family and all the time I am able to spend with them. I know that in the years to come, we can hopefully extend our Holidays out West and we can have more of the extended family there to celebrate with us. Until then, I am going to give thanks everyday for:

*My Dad providing us with everything that we could ever need and want (within reason, obviously!). He has one of the biggest hearts of anyone I have ever met, and will go to any length to do what is best for his family. Through our moves to Sacramento to Columbus, everything has happened for a reason to make our lives the best they can be and to provide for us all.

*My Mom for always being that voice of reason, and helping through any crisis or situation that might come up. She too, will bend over backwards to help my sister and I through anything that may come up. She is a fantastic friend, and an even better supportive Mom. I would be lost without her and her silliness!

*My Darling Sister for being her! She is truly one of the best people I've ever met in my life, and my parents should be very proud of the person she has grown up to be! She is one of the most beautiful people with the biggest heart in the world. We had many years through life where we would fight daily, and we were not very good sisters. Through maturity, we have found and created that bond that close sister's have.

I love my family, and am so thankful to have them in my life daily! I am by far one of the most fortunate people around to have such a fantastic family and for that - I give Thanks this year for my Family and all that they are.

The Green Dilemma

Recently, my sister decided that she wanted to redecorate her bathroom. On the search with her to find the "perfect shower curtain," I got to thinking that I might want to visit the idea of possibly getting new bedding. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE my current bedding and the way it looks (when my bed is actually made). However, it is annoying. I have a queen duvet, and the insert of the duvet is stupid and doesn't actually fit in the duvet. It is too small, where the duvet cover is too big. I have a queen bed, and the queen/full inserts are just way too small. I thought it was the duvet, until I realized that it is actually all of the inserts I've spent money on. So, now on my bed is plain white insert as a comforter with my cover in a wadded ball in the corner of my closet. My new thought: I need a comforter with print, rather than going to the duvet route one more time in being disappointed or annoyed a few months into having it.

This is the bedding I currently "have." It is the print on the cover (when I use it), and 4 of my pillows, and sheets. It is a great print and I love it! I loved it sooo much that I bought the matching shower curtain which currently hangs in my bathroom.

When I moved into my apartment, I was so nicely provided with a hand-me down lamp from my Mom which was nice but didn't go with the decor. One day, I was walking through Marshall's and found a lamp which I thought would go perfectly with my room! I took a big risk in buying it, with the possibility that I would have to return it from it being too much green and leaves. But, looking at it - I love it more and more everyday. I don't ever want to lose this lamp, so I must decorate my room around it!

On the search for the "perfect shower curtain" with Kate, I ran into this bedding. I thought - now that might go well with my lamp. The euro pillows they have in the back is actually the same green that I currently have as shams with my current bedding, so I am thinking that would go well!


What do we think, friends? Does this bedding match my lamp enough for me to buy it? I take my blankets very seriously and this one is no different. I am the girl that in the winter literally has 6 or 7 blankets on my bed, to go along with my chamois soft sheets. Even in the summer, you can find me bundled up with 2 or 3. I love blankets!!

You know you're an adult when...

I had a revelation yesterday, a big one. As we all know, I've been trying to spruce up my baking/cooking skills. We know this by my post where I decided to enter some baked goods in the Delaware County Fair. (Which just occurred to me I never wrote a blog about the results! I'll do that one next.) I've mastered peanut butter cookies, and have made a few other great items. I've found that my skills are truly more in the baking area. Cooking, not so good. I can make a MEAN hot dog, but past that - I'm still very much a beginner.

Last week, various departments at work celebrated with their own potlucks for Halloween. I accept the invitation and within minutes I have emails flying into my inbox begging that I bring the cookies. Everyone had loved my fair winning cookies so much (when I had about 20984290348 left over, so took them to work for the group to enjoy), that I have now have the reputation of the Cookie Girl. I sit at my desk and think about what the best type of cookie would be to make. Lately, I've had a huge craving for a s'more. So, I wonder if there is a type of cookie that is made around s'mores. Long story short, there are and they are AMAZING!! It was another winning recipe which had emails flooding my work account from people loving them. The only pain about making these cookies was graham cracker crumbs. I needed 1 cup, that's all. I didn't think it would be a huge issue. All I needed was graham crackers, a ziploc bag and my rolling pin - right? NO! It didn't work - I still had huge chunks of cracker. So, I get out the blender... it is meant for "blending" so I figure it is also for this. Again, no. After a few minutes, the darn thing smelled like it was going to catch fire. But - this is my last resort so I cross my fingers and hope it doesn't explode at any time soon.

Saturday morning, I had not much going on so I thought I'd float around Dublin and look around and see what kind of trouble I can get into since I was paid on Friday. I remembered that I had 2 Kohl's giftcards in my purse my Mom had given me when she returned something and gave me the remaining cash (she's so nice!). I go to Kohls, I walk around fully believing I would end up with a pair of shoes. Instead, I walk back into home appliances... and walked out of Kohl's with one of these!
I would just like to note, this is a fancy food processor. Not at all the one I purchased... but I am going to pretend I spent $200 on this one. I left Kohl's SO excited about my new food processor! Even one year ago, if you would have asked me if I wanted one, I would have told you you were crazy and I'd rather go to the Gap and buy a pair of jeans. (Oh man, I need some new jeans!) This was a big moment for me, a very adult moment - and one that would make my Mom so proud!

Then my Mom asks me what I want for Christmas this year. She claims I am the hardest person in the world to buy for. Why she says this? I don't know! I am pretty easy to please with gifts. But, with my recent love of baking, and finding a recipe that required me to stand at a bowl with a hand mixer for over 10 minutes... I need a standing mixer!!!


I would LOVE this mixer, but understanding that Santa is going to spend over $350 on it is like Hell freezing over. Ain't gonna happen in this lifetime! So, I probably won't end up with the pretty pink one that matches my kitchen towels. I am good with the cheapest one they make... I am not picky.

These two items really made me realize that I am growing into an actual adult. I am so excited to use my food processor, and I am even more excited for my mixer that I am keeping my fingers crossed that I get from Santa. (I better go rake his leaves this week...) Everyday is a new day, and everyday is a lesson learned. I've won ribbons at the fair this year, I've jarred nearly 40 jars of homemade applesauce, I've learned to knit (horribly), and I've purchased a food processor. This girl is moving up in the world and is liking the way things are turning out!

Babies, Babies, Everywhere!

Growing up, I was always the kid who played house. I played with my Cabbage Patch dolls until it was no longer cool. My cousin, Jaclyn, and I would have sleep overs and trade our doll clothes. I've loved babies from the very beginning of time. For as long as I can remember, my Mom has always said: "Oh that Becca. She would even love a baby snake as long as it is a baby." Okay, I disagree with her on that statement - but it's true. I absolutely love everything about babies! Call me a freak if you will, but I set my DVR everyday for TLC to record The Baby Story. When it comes time to watch it, I cry. Why? Because I'm sensitive, that's why!

Right out of high school, I landed a job at a local preschool. I started off as just a floater, but over time found myself full-time (while going to school) in the baby room. It was the perfect job for me. I held babies literally all day long. Rocked them to sleep, changed them, fed them, etc. I stayed at that job for about 5 yrs when I went to school full time. Through the years, I've babysat probably over 100 children (I counted at one point), and my heart has always belonged to those itty bitty babies. I've seen so many children grow up through the years, and it honestly melts my heart.

This year, it has been the year of babies for many people that I know. Not only are people I know having their first (or second, or third, or forth) babies, but they are all people who I love. Whether it is a relative, or a friend - each baby is so special in their own way.

My cousin Chris, and wonderful wife Janette recently expanded their little family into a family of 4. Miss Riley Mae made her debut last week, and is absolutely precious in every way! Big sister Kalie is going to have so much fun with her little sister through the years, I can only hope she enjoys her little sister as I do mine! (They are lots of fun to pick on!) Aunt Jaclyn is just as proud as if Riley was her own. Taking about her two wonderful nieces, makes her smile ear to ear!

Miss Riley will grow up at Warren family functions with my cousin Rhiannon's soon to be born baby. Baby Boy Brovold will be born mid-December. You can bet that come beginning of December, I will await for the text/call that the little guy is on his way. This baby comes with a whole lot of people who love him, and are waiting to meet him. Rhiannon and Kenny mean the absolute world to me - and I couldn't be thrilled to watch them expand their little family into three. I have no doubt that they will provide for their new little guy, and will be the best parents out there. This little boy is so lucky to be born to such two amazing people. Most exciting part: I will be traveling back to Seattle in January to meet this new little guy in person and be able to squeeze him like silly!

My dear friend, Joanna, who I have been friends with from working at Cardinal is also expecting. Baby Boy Jutte will be born mid-January. This is another baby who is coming into a fantastic family. Joanna comes from a very strong British family, and I cannot wait to hear the little accent that this little guy will adapt to through life! The fun thing about this baby, I'll actually get to see and hold him since he is local to me!

Where I am so very excited for all of these new or expectant mothers, not being able to meet Miss Riley and being there to see newborn Baby Boy tugs at my heart. We moved away from Seattle back in 1990, and since then we have not had the feeling of "family" functions or participating in all of these family events. Thinking about possibly having a real family Christmas, Thanksgiving or birth of a family member makes me want to pack up my bags and move back to the area tomorrow. As an adult, you begin to realize just how important these events are. As a child, Christmas is about presents. Today, I sit here and realize it is the time spent with loved ones which is truly the most important gift.

Babies are such a blessing, and I wish nothing but happiness for my dear friends and family. Though I have not been able to experience these emotions; I am so very excited for each and everyone who has had the opportunity. Everyone needs to have more babies, so I have more to hold and more to have fun with!

**Sorry to make so sappy, totally had a thought on my mind and had to talk about it. :)**

AHHHHHHHHH!!!!!

Since the unfortunate passing of Michael Jackson, my dear friend has continued to mourn his loss and scratch her head as to why the world lost a soft soul so early in life. To show her support, she has purchased every DVD, every CD, every (positive) book ever written about the King of Pop. She is truly a knowledge of wisdom when it comes to this topic. Last year, Twilight, this year - Michael Jackson. Those around Courtney E. Scott will never forget him and will continue to be reminded of his talents.

Growing up, I am sad to say that I wasn't the biggest Michael Jackson fan (though I did like him and enjoy his tunes), I was a supporter of his sister, Janet. I purchased the cds, I watched her videos, and let's face it - I even had her cassette tapes. I remember in middle school, sitting in my room rocking out to Rhythm Nation. I remember in high school listening to If and Velvet Rope. I also remember "attempting" to bust a move (behind closed doors of course) to dance like Janet.

Combined with my liking for Janet, and Courtney's liking for Michael and watching the video and listening to Scream, over and over and over again - we came up with the most brilliant of ideas.

Next year for our Halloween Costumes, we will be Michael and Janet and will dance their dance. (Granted, I can speak for myself when I say that hopefully by attempting to dance and make a complete idiot of myself in my living room - I will drop enough poundage to look decent enough not to look like a slug in my up coming pleather pants!) Courtney and I have been amazingly good friends for years, and what is a better costume than combining her love for Michael, and my love for Janet?! Thankfully, Halloween is still over a year away so we have plenty of time to jump around and dance.

When Janet did her tribute for Michael at the VMAs, I watched her in awe. Her ability to dance is truly amazing, and I am envious of her talent. I watch her in all of her videos, and I honestly wonder if there is a dance teacher out there who would be willing to teach me to bust a move. Weird, right? At this point, I am honestly thinking that this could result in my 2010 New Years Resolution. If you know anyone in Columbus willing to teach this slug to dance like Janet, please give me a call!

AHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!

Criminals live within East Campus

I think that the picture above sums up my situation absolutely perfectly! Please let me expand on the happenings today at work.

Over the past few weeks (okay, fine - few months!), I've been "finding myself." When I say this, I mean that for the past 7 years, I've been scared to eat a darn thing due to my digestive system rejecting food. The pain I experienced, put fear into my mind every single time I put something in my mouth. "Will it hurt again this time?" It really became quite annoying after 7 years in hearing that there was "nothing wrong with me." Low and behold, I finally had a test come back positive for gall stones. Music to my ears. So, since my gall bladder removal in July - I've been out in the world testing all the foods I couldn't eat before. Focusing specifically on Mexican. Mmm! Over the past few months, I've done quite if bit of going to Happy Hour, dinner, lunches and out of town vacations - which all result in eating out. Let's face it - when you're at Happy Hour with a few good friends, the last thing you want to do is eat salad and drink water! Therefore, I haven't been on my best behavior and cannot face standing on a scale for the fear that all of the great pounds I lost over the past few months are probably back on my body. I'm feeling like a slug, therefore - I am a slug.

I had a great weekend with friends again this weekend, and when I arrived back at home - I decided that it is back time to find my focus. I know I can focus and eat better, I did it for 2 yrs and had great results! However, since I was "finding myself" it was my excuse to be a slug. I am here to announce my friends, those days are over. My motivation is back, and it is time to start packing my lunches again and cooking my dinner at home.

Because I tend to run late in the mornings (again, another excuse for not making a lunch), I typically make my lunches at night. Last night, I got everything together in my cute little Crate and Barrell red lunchbox. Packed my 1 cup dry cereal and applesauce for breakfast, and my Lean Pocket and my peaches for lunch, finalized with a few crackers for an afternoon snack if I feel like I am withering away to nothing.

I arrive at work, and throw my Lean Pocket in the freezer. Same freezer, same shelf placement I always put any type of frozen food that I would pack.

12:45 rolls around and I decide that the offer letters need a break, and it is time to eat my lunch. I walk to the East Campus cafe to grab my diet coke, and move to the freezer to grab my lunch to warm up. Open the door, and BAM! Gone! I look high and low in that freezer and it is no where to be found! Could it have vanished into thin air? Is Cardinal Health haunted with ghosts who enjoy Lean Pockets? No, of course not! Someone took MY LUNCH!!! At this point, I think of Ross on Friends who goes into a rage when someone eats his sandwich, they didn't like it, so they threw it away. I want my lunch! I don't want to be forced down into the cafe to buy something unhealthy - it's not fair! I found my motivation and I wanted to keep the momentum going! I could get a salad, but I very picky on my dressings and I am not too fond of what they have to offer. A plain turkey sandwich is boring, and I don't want it! I'm not happy.

I hope that whoever took my lunch burns their mouth, or bites the heck out of their cheek! After sharing my little story with my dear friend, Callie, I learn that over the Summer - her Lean Pocket was taken too! I am fully willing to play hall monitor, and set up a little security desk in front of the fridges, and monitor that everyone takes their own lunch. We're all adults for goodness sake! I am sorry that you may not have received a decent enough salary increase, but please remember that we're all struggling with the economy and stealing other people's food - is not okay. Maybe you didn't get your increase, because you are a thief!

Tomorrow, between the hours of 11:30-1:30pm, you will find me in front of the freezer. I am going to consider this my own "Cardinal Health Neighborhood Watch" and I will ensure that your lunch is not taken either!

Zip! Zap! Gone!

I absolutely love the girl that does my eye brows, she is the nicest girl in the world. Even when it looks like I have caterpillars over my eyes, she just laughs it off and says: "Yep! It's been awhile, huh?" She has been ripping out my hair for quite a few years - we've grown a bond. She also is aware that when I schedule an appt at 5:30 after work, I'm always going to be running in the doors 4 minutes late. She claims she doesn't mind, but if I were her - I would be annoyed and would rip out those fine hairs that hurt like a mother a little harder! She's gentle though.

Yesterday, I first would like to point out I was smart and scheduled my appt for 6:30 rather than 5:30. This way, I am not running in the front doors like a freak from work and apologizing like it is my J O B! She was proud that I had not waited to until I had insects crawling across my face and complimented me on that. Followed by that very nice compliment was: "Oh... my... god! What happened to your face?!" She spotted it. The enemy. The massive pimple that had emerged from the depths of hell during the night before. My reply: "I know! It was there when I woke up this morning! Am I going through puberty again or what?!"

After my brows were beautifully shaped, she announces that she is going to shock my my blemish. Uh, as it electric shock therapy? NO THANK YOU! The inner child I am, I ask if it is going to hurt. What is more important? Shocking this mountain of evil on my face or dealing with a little shock to rid of it. Hmmm... "No Becca, it is not going to hurt. You'll feel it, but you'll be okay." (You know in her head she is thinking "you just had surgery - stop being a wienie.") I brace myself for the shock, which ends up actually only feel like a slight tickle on my cheek. Not at all what I was expecting! She tells me that the blemish should be gone by morning. I am in honest amazement and cannot wait to wake up tomorrow to see if it is gone! I wake up this morning, and to my surprise what was once an additional growth on my face has turned nicely into just a small bump easily covered by foundation.

A note to my eyebrow girl: Thank you for taking a chance and giving me that little added bonus yesterday. I do fully believe that you were nice to me and took away my new appendage because I was on time and didn't keep you waiting! You can bet that I will be on time everytime from now on out!

7 x 7 = 49?

All through my educational path, I've never been the one to be able to pull off a decent grade in any math class. I hated math, despised math, and quite frankly wouldn't have been sad if all the math books disappeared and I never had to pick up a calculator and pencil again. English, I can enjoy. History, I love. Math = a deep dark depression!

I'll be honest, I mean we are all friends here... right? Elementary school, for the life of me I could never remember 7 x 7. My Dad still makes fun of me to this day that I can remember every single word to any song that comes on the radio, but math - I block out as much as I can. Taking the "dumb" math at Ohio State, was a struggle. I am not sure it was a struggle because I opted to do about 25% of my homework assignments and never studied for tests, or was it a struggle because I really don't like numbers and I really couldn't do it. One fall day, I convinced my Mom that maybe I had a learning disability and maybe I should get tested. She figured it was a good move considering my lacking in math was nothing new and maybe there could be a reason for my mediocre work (other than my inability to do my homework!). Entering Pomerene Hall, I was fully prepared for the news that I suck but on the bright side would receive special tests and for the choice of 1st pick of classes. I take all the tests, a wait the results, am pulled into the little special room (let's face it, no good news come out of sitting in those sheltered rooms), and BAM! "Rebecca, your tests came back absolutely normal. You do not have a learning disability. By the way, your hand writing is absolutely beautiful." OH COME ON! So, we're looking at the fact that my grades were coming from my lack of studying and doing homework. Eh, why change anything now?

Fast forward: September 24th, 2009.

Until about 2 months ago, I've done everything in my power to avoid math in my everyday life. I did a little bit of math in figuring out Paid Time Off for new hires that come in, or using a calculator to figure out a bi-weekly rate of a salary - but that is all. That's all simple math. Lately, I have had to do a lot more thinking in the math department in figuring out Sales Compensation plans for our Sales Reps. I have felt pretty smart, and it feels pretty good that I can help someone else through those tricky percentages.

This past Thursday, our VP of Sales Ops came into Dublin and gave us a Comp training - complete with a pop quiz. Lord help me. I had a nightmare of numbers all over again, and broke out into a small sweat. I hold a high regard for this VP, and I do not want her to think that I am learning challenged (even though those people at Ohio State claim I am normal, I still doubt them!). I do my math, and I hope for the best... going over the answers, I learned that I did every single one of them correctly! What in the world has happened to me?! All of a sudden my brain is processing numbers - and not only numbers but WORD PROBLEMS!! Whhhhhattt!??!! I mean, are you kidding me? I, Rebecca C. Warren, ACED a math POP QUIZ! I was so happy, I literally could have cried. I called my Mom and told her on the way home from work, and I am pretty sure that she shed a tear of happiness as well!

I've learned from this experience that I am not as dumb as I think! Doing those math problems and doing them correctly, I have realized that I can do almost anything I put my mind to! It is true, as we mature and grow in life, we realize that is important. Homework and studying was not important to me for about ohhhh 24 years of my life. Now, I realize that I am smarter than what I appear and if I put my mind to it - I can do anything.

I'd like to end this note with: 7 x 7 = 49.

Welcome to 328 6th Street

Welcome to 328 6th Street

The "328" has been apart of my family since the early 1940's. It was the home of my great grandparents, Henry & Iona Rohlman. This is the place my grandpa was raised until he went into the military and married my Grandma. This is the place that I spent many years of my childhood visiting and having family get togethers. This is the place that my great aunt moved into when my great Grandma died. This is the place that hold very positive childhood memories for me. Lastly, this is the place that the entire Rohlman family all stay at when we roll into town and we call it home for our time back in Seattle.

328 is only two blocks away form the Western Washington Fair. It is also two blocks away from the every Saturday Farmer's Market. Three blocks away you find the Pioneer Bakery with donuts the size of your head; and the interior has not changed since when I first entered the doors in the early 1980s. Four blocks away, the trains constantly go throughout the day. "Honk, honk!" This is the only place that I can tolerate listening to trains and not get irritated when they keep me awake. It instead makes me smile knowing that I am back at old 328.

Walking in the door, I look at the dark wooden stairs going upstairs and picture my cousin Jaclyn and I on our hands and knees pretending to be Annie and singing "Hard Knock Life." I walk into the kitchen, and see the pantry with that accordion door. The place that where Jaclyn and I would shut the door, sit on the stool and pretend it was our rocket ship.

Out the backdoor behind the garage:The grape arbor! I spent many summer days as a kid picking grapes, eating grapes and admiring grapes.

Within this house, you will also find a little bit of mystery to it... if you are younger than the age of 10.

The bedroom upstairs with two very old twin beds. It is dark, it always has been dark, and is pretty scary. It is not until I was nearly 25 years old that I finally realized that the room isn't scary, it isn't haunted rather is just lacking in sunlight! I bust open the blinds and curtains, and the room is already full of life.

In the bathroom, there is a door. A mystery door. This door was ALWAYS shut growing up. Sitting down on the toilet as a kid looking at that closed door is TERRIFYING! I thought for sure that there were ghosts, monsters, goblins hiding behind that door. Booga, booga! Finally, in my 20's, the door finally was left open for the first time in my entire life and I can see that there is nothing exciting in there other than luggage. How boring! The suspense was totally shattered.


Great Grandma Rohlman's room has absolutely had a few "things" happen since she passed in 1994. Since then, her room randomly has lights turn on and off and there is always the feeling that she is with us. This was her house that has always been filled with so much love. Though she is not with us anymore in person, every time you enter the house you feel her spirit and know that she wants us there visiting and will do anything for us to have a fantastic time. It is hard to imagine not visiting 328 when traveling to Seattle, and I cannot wait for us to have more family vacations there down the road. I can only hope that since I had so many childhood memories in that house, I can take my own future children there to experience all of those happy memories that I had. Whether it is playing Annie on the stairs, eating grapes in the sunshine or wondering what was behind that crazy door... I will treasure every single minute in that house!

I am my Father's Daughter

My Mom might be the smartest person I've ever met in my life, seriously! The other day driving down the road, I had a question about Russia and she rattled off for about 10 minutes on the in's and out's of Russia's current political status. She absolutely amazes me with the knowledge that she has built up in her brain! There is no question in my mind why she is so knowledgeable... she LOVES to read. I mean LOVES IT! She wakes up in the morning, she reads. She eats lunch, she reads. She "watches tv," she is really reading her book. She goes to bed, again - she's reading. She can probably finish one book a day if she truly could dedicate her entire day to reading. She has been this way since she was a kid. Kathy can always be found with a book in her hands.

She has one daughter who actually doesn't mind reading. She would prefer to lay in bed at night and read a biography on Audrey Hepburn than watch tv. Her other daughter (me, obviously), follows in the steps of her father and does not read. I am like my Dad - the only book(s) I read is if I am on an airplane or in a situation where I have absolutely nothing to do. If there is a tv in front of me, forget it. Reading is a lost cause, and I'd much prefer to watch my DVDs, or whatever the current show addiction is. Last year, I found an author that I truly enjoyed and I actually finished 3 of her books within a month period. I was so proud of myself - but again, I was on a work trip to San Diego when I finished 2 of the 3 books. I was stuck on a plane, I was stuck in airports on lay overs and had nothing better to do with my time. I was able to squeeze in book #3 somewhere between watching tv shows.

A few months later, I hear of this series called the "Twilight" series. All of my friends were reading it, all of my friends were talking about it, and I felt like I needed to read them to join in on the fun. I mean, who is this Edward Cullen guy? It takes place in Forks, Washington - birthplace of my darling cousin... I should give this a try! So - I read Twilight... and LOVE IT! Next step, book #2: New Moon. Maybe people didn't like this one nearly as much as the 1st one. I'm not prejudice, I liked it just as much! Next one, Eclipse. Just as amazing as book #1 and book #2. Finally, Breaking Dawn - which is literally the size of a phone book! (The phonebook from my last blog that is STILL sitting on my neighbors door mat.) I read... I read... and I read... and then in typical Becca fashion - I come to a stand still. For the life of me, I cannot pick it up again to continue reading it. I am told that I am at a very critical part of the book and one of the most amazing things I will ever read - but I can't do it! ADHD has kicked in. I have hit my quota and I just cannot read anymore! I come home from work, exhausted and the last thing I want to do is read.

My Mom is my Mom and she would never judge me for not reading. It breaks her heart, but let's face it I am her daughter and she loves me for me and not my ability to read. She is understanding that I am my father's daughter and I would rather read the side of a cereal box or People magazine than read a 700 page book. Word went around to some of my posse that I have not yet finished Breaking Dawn and thus the threats begin. Not only does one of my longest standing best friends continue to give me a hard time in saying that me quitting reading at this point is basically like quitting school right before graduation. (Point taken, Courtney!) She is one of the only ones who know that I have not finished... until last night. I receive a text from my dear cousin ripping me a new one because a little bird by the name of COURTNEY ELLEN SCOTT had sent her a text letting her know that I had not finished yet. At this point, I was threatened by my own flesh and blood when I touch down in Seattle on Tuesday that she is going to basically beat me. I have two of the closest people in my life threatening me!!

I'm flying to Seattle on Tuesday, and I cannot have my 6 mo pregnant cousin beating me for not finishing Breaking Dawn. Tonight, I bought it and downloaded it onto my ipod. Brilliant idea, I know! Now on the plane, I can actually listen to someone read to me and do my search-a-word at the exact same time. This is absolutely brilliant! If this works out - you can be sure that I will start "reading" more. Maybe I'll "read" while I work and listen to audiobooks during the day! Then, maybe just MAYBE, I can be as smart as my Mom and not have to live my life in fear from my dear friend and my dear cousin. Regardless of their threats - Courtney & Rhiannon - I love you both anyways! :)

Times Square Dublin or Times Square NYC?

Many years ago, a new and fresh apartment style living was brought to Dublin, Ohio. The first time I remember hearing of these cool new apartments were when Edwards Communities built a new complex called Times Square. It was being built right behind Tuttle Mall, which is appealing in itself that you can over look the mall from your front door! What was more eye catching were the adorable little store fronts that are visible from the main road. Obviously, it is nothing like the real NYC Times Square, but has a fun little atmosphere!

When Kate and I decided to take the plunge and be roomies, we decided that it was only natural that we tour and look at the complex for the possibility of calling it home. We toured the complex, fell in love with the complex, and jumped onto getting on the guest list. The location was fantastic for the both of us to commute to work. It was a tad more pricey that we truly wanted to spend, but from all the money we saved from commuting from Delaware to Dublin daily - we were saving a lot on gas money.

We found our "luxury" (I use the quotations because my idea of luxury will be obviously different than other peoples!) on the 3rd floor. High ceilings. Big rooms. It is honestly the perfect set up for 2 roommates. I mean look at the view from our patio - it's beautiful during the Spring & Summer!
Another great thing about our complex is the noise level. My floors do not bump with the music in the middle of the night. My walls do not shake from people yelling next door to me. Additionally, my neighbors are quiet. Regardless that I am pretty sure that the people below us throw each other up against the wall or something. Either that, or they fall down a lot! Lots of "thuds" to be heard. Small price to pay! I am very proud of my complex, and truly love living here.

Speaking of neighbors, we have 2 new sets.

To the right of our door: A young couple who look as if one of them is a doctor (wearing scrubs gives it away), and possibly just newly married. I wouldn't really know because they hide in their apartment and I think are night owls or something! Our new lovely neighbors must have a problem with their backs. I say this for the reason that about 3 weeks ago, we all received new phonebooks. The phonebooks were placed by our doors - and obviously there for us to take and utilize. My neighbors continue to walk by daily and essentially just walk over the bag and into their house. I know that they are alive, and I know that they leave! I've seen them! What do they have against this poor phonebook that just wants to have a home and not be homeless forever!? They must have a medical condition that makes it impossible for them to bend at the waste, and pick up a little orange bag.

Our neighbors on the left are also very private people. I know that he drives a black BMW and has used window paint in his car to say: Go Buks! Which - has been there since he moved in a few months ago. (Window paint should probably come with spell check for the "Buks.")

This neighbor must REALLY like to paint. I came home from a small roadtrip this weekend to an adorable home-made welcome mat in front of his door! Please take a look and enjoy the world's best welcome mat!

*Call me crazy, but I am not so sure that Kenny Chesney would be too proud to have his song lyrics on something so incredibly tacky!*

Clearly, my Times Square is no where near the sophistication of NYC. However, I love Dublin, I love having my own bathroom, I love my room, I love my daily commute to work, and even more importantly - I love my sister who quite possibly is the best roomie in the entire world!! How did I get so lucky with her!?

It's okay, they are healthy obsessions!

Over the past year, I've determined that I have various obsessions. I could buy a new dvd/tv show dvd set every paycheck. Every time I am at Best Buy, they ask if I want to open a Reward Zone card for perks. I say no - but I always leave thinking, "Becca, that's stupid. You are here all the time buying stuff!" Yet - I never do it. When I sit here and think of the un-godly amount of money I have spent on dvds, it makes me nauseous. Literally, nauseous. Then there is my obsession with Diet Coke ... I figured it could be worse and it could be alcohol, cigarettes, or drugs. The $5 a day I spend on Diet Coke - it's alright! Sure, I might die from aspartame poisoning - but I am so going to die happy!

However, the more I think about it... life's most important obsessions are music. Think about it. You're driving in your car in the summer sun, you want good music! You're driving down a street covered with trees with colorful fall leaves and the appropriate music makes that drive even more beautiful. Obsessions to music start at a very early age! There are songs that I remember as a child that I will always remember and always love. This does include Neil Diamond singing "Coming to America." Or, Chicago - "You're the Inspiration." These songs make me smile and make me remember my little bowl haircut and singing into a hairbrush with my Strawberry Shortcake PJs on.

Everyone I know has some sort of music obsession - and it is these singers/bands/groups that make us smile. You will never grow tired of them, and you will always carry their songs with you everywhere you go. Especially in the car!

Neil's Obsession: The Beatles

As far back as I can remember, my Dad has always and forever will be obsessed with the Beatles. Growing up as kids, Kate and I would often find ourselves being quizzed on family car rides. "Whose singing this song?" "JOHN!" John typically always sings the ballads, Paul is often found with the fast, tap your foot kind of song. I am 28 yrs old, and for the past 28 yrs - every major holiday Neil receives just one more thing for his collection. One would think that after all this time, he'd have it all. Negative. We can always find something new! Because of his obsession, I love the Beatles and love their music just as I would have if I was born back in the 50s.


Kate's Obsession: Jim Brickman

My darling little sister is obsessed with any handsome man who is able to play the piano on a professional level. Since the day she laid her eyes on Jim Brickman, she has been hooked. Whenever this girl is down in the dumps, this is her soothing music. When Christmas rolls around, this is her Holiday music. You can hear Jim Brickman every month of the year while hanging out or driving down the road with Kate. She officially became a member of the Jim Brickman fan club which not only sent her a t-shirt, but also provided her with backstage passes to meet Jim & his crew in person. If a concert has traveled into her area, she's been there. She has stayed in the state, she has gone out of the state - all in the while enjoying Jim and his beautiful piano playing skills.

Kathy's Obsession: Donny Osmond

Growing up, I always heard my Mom talk about the Osmond Brothers and "how cute they were and such nice boys." Then it was about Donnie & Marie - she was a fan! She too, signed up to be apart of Donny's fanclub online. Every year on her bday, Donny sends her an email and sings her happy birthday - it melts her heart and makes her year! About 3 yrs ago, Donny was coming to Columbus and she REALLY wanted to go. I never really listened to Donny except for a few random times. Though, I knew my mom has always loved him! Being the good daughter I am, I volunteered to go with her. (What was I thinking!?) I have never in my life been surrounded by so many middle-aged women wearing polyester outfits with sequins. Holy crap. Regardless, I left that concert actually have had a great time and do enjoy listening to Donny voluntarily!


Courtney's Obsession: Michael Jackson

I always thought that my Dad would top the charts with his obsession - but he has tough competition. My dearest friend Courtney is by far one of the most dedicated Michael Jackson fans I'll ever meet in my life. Since the passing of her dear MJ, she has given her heart and soul to fully support Prince Michael, Paris & Blanket's college funds by buying every single cd, dvd, book that she can possibly get her hands on. With her obsession, it has taught me to learn to appreciate Michael for all of his talents. Yes, I listened to Michael growing up - but it is not until his passing that I can say I listen to him on a regular basis. I wish that I would have listened to him sooner, because the talent that he displays is truly indescribable.

Becca's Obsessions:

I am truly a child of the late 80's/early 90's. I grew up in the time of Tiger Beat and Teen Bop posters, which covered my bedroom walls top to bottom. It is possible that I might have had some taped up under my top bunk to see at night... Shhhh! Don't tell!

I was still living in Enumclaw with my first two started. It was all about New Kids on the Block, and Debbie Gibson. I couldn't even handle how much I loved their music. I wanted every single NKOTB doll, buttons, t-shirt, sweatshirt, bedding, pillows, Debbie Gibson Electric Youth Perfume, you name it - I wanted it. I didn't get all of it, but I got a good amount. The only thing that I truly never got was to go to any of their concerts. It was a sad day when NKOTB disappeared, and I had yet to get to a concert. Our dear Debbie became Deborah and let's face it - just wasn't what she was before. My obsession died down, though - deep down I still loved them both dearly!



Following NKOTB and Debbie - moved into Janet Jackson. I can still remember the day that Christmas Day when I opened up my very first Janet Jackson cassette tape. Escapade anyone? Black Cat? I packed my new cassette into my new Caboodle and went to my room to sit and listen to Janet all day long until Christmas dinner.

To date: I have been able to see two of my three music obsessions live and in person. When Nsync was big, Debbie Gibson toured with them and found themselves at Crew Stadium. I went to go to see Deborah, where the other kiddos around me where there for Lance Bass. Last November, I went to go Seattle to experience the comeback of NKOTB with one of my dearest cousins - Rhiannon. I have a NEW NKOTB t-shirt, I have a NEW button and am a fan! Someday, if I ever find Janet in Columbus - I think that it is only fitting that I see her as well. These are my obsessions that I will never forget and will continue to love and listen to!

Julia Childs Enters the Delaware County Fair

Through the year, I am sure that everyone remembers that one of my New Year's Resolutions was to learn to cook at a more advanced level than just throwing a Morningstar Chik'n Patty into the oven. It has been a slow process in practicing, but I am getting there! My ultimate goal is to be just as an amazing of a cook as famous chefs such as Betty Crocker, Anthony Bourdain, Eric Ripert, Rocco DiSpirito ... and of course, Julia Childs! (For the record, I didn't just google Anthony, Eric or Rocco. I actually knew who they were from watching tv! They are my favorite chefs!) Obviously, I will never have the skills or sophistication that they have - but a girl can dream!

A week ago, my Mom asked if I could be so kind as to make some cookies for her for a function that she had at work. I thought, sure! It is just one more way of practicing my culinary skills! I had remembered a cookie recipe that I swiped from my friend Jen's house while watching Sweet Baby Autumn on Summer evening from an old issue of Parenting. Million Dollar Caramel Cookies ... how bad could those possibly be?! Spent an evening making them, and they turned out to be the most cakey, carameling, delicate cookies I've ever had! They were pretty amazing if I do say so myself. My mom did let me know that they were a hit, and the company who I had made them for enjoyed every cookie. My skills are getting better...

Last week, I had four days off of work to use up some vacation days that were going to vanish by August 28th. I spent a lot of time up at my parents house helping with my Dad since he had foot surgery and can hardly do a thing by myself and my Mom had to work. In the time that I spent at their house, I decided to start looking through all of my Mom's recipe books that she has collected over the years. She has a library, I mean the size of the Columbus Metro Library, full of cookbooks! I spent probably 2 days going through all of her recipes. As I was looking through them, she suggested that I enter a baked good into the Delaware County Fair this year. She did it for the first time last year, and walked away with I believe 3 ribbons. I thought - what do I have to lose!? Julia Childs would have done it! It falls within my other resolution of "doing new things." It is possible that I could win the blue ribbon for Delaware's best cupcake! Or, even get Delaware's best peanut butter cookie! Or, even better - my name could be in the paper! Sign me up!
I decided upon entering a type of cupcake, and peanut butter cookies. Mmmm! Peanut butter! I better start cooking, and perfecting my recipes. Off to the kitchen I go... I arrive home late one evening and decide to go ahead and start cooking since I have all of the ingredients for recipe #1: Peanut Butter Clouds. I make the cookies, and they are just okay... my Mom thinks that they are good, I think that they need to be more chewy. So - back to the drawing board. Those are good cookies, but they are not at all of blue ribbon status. While cooking this batch of cookies, I decide to be brilliant and grab the 350 degree cookie sheet with my barehand - GENIUS! I am happy to report that the blisters are going away nicely and I am pretty certain that I had 2nd degree burn. Please use this story as a warning to always use an oven mitt! Duh.
This Mickey Mouse Binder, my friends, is the Mecca of my new found cooking skills! This is a binder my Mom started collecting recipes in back in 1976. I totally remember this binder from when I was a kid and seeing it up on the shelf. This is the binder that I am sure my winning Peanut Butter Cookie recipe is sitting in. Though the first batch from this binder weren't the winning ones, you wait... they are just a few pages away! Let's keep our fingers crossed that within a few weeks, I have a ribbon or two to show off for my numerous attempts at being the next - Julia Childs.

Changing Times - Saying Goodbye

Over the past 3 years, I have worked with what I can only consider the best team in the world! We have had our moments of fun, we have had our moments of stress, and lord knows - we have had our moments of being nothing but truly exhausted. We can all agree that for the most part, we were a team of stone. We always had each other's backs, and we knew the recipe for making the Sales Team an success. Even through those tough times, we have seen teammates come and go - but truly the solid team remained as one.

Because of some recent changes, we will no longer have the opportunity to be one team. August 28th will be truly a sad day, as I watch some of you walk away and I will not have that opportunity to talk to you daily as I do now. I will always remember our good times together, and all of the laughs that we shared. It is going to be hard, but we have to remain strong - truly for one another.

Aaron: Thank you for giving me the opportunity to support you and work hand in hand with you for a number of years. We were a team that rocked the house, and made things happen! It was your dedication to your hiring managers that has made you the successful Recruiter that you are. Thank you for teaching me, guiding me, and letting me complain to you as much as I wanted. As you knew, your last day was absolute torture in knowing that our team was fizzling away. However, I carry with me all of our non-work related convos and laughs. I will miss the times where I could yell at you: "JAMES AARON BARTELS!" and in return I would receive a "REBECCA CHARITY WARREN!" Addtionally, keep your phone ready for those days that I need a shoulder. I am still calling you, and you'll still be lucky enough to listen to me. :) You truly an amazing person, and I wish you the best in your new role!

Mindy: You my dear, you are one in a million! Your personality and humor is what made our team keep it's cheerful momentum through those trying times. Without you, our team would not have half of the memories that we do today. Where would we be without our dear Salami? Where would we be without BP? Lastly, what would our lunches be like without your stories and laughing yourself into tears? I am thankful that you are so close to me still, so I can still see you often and we can continue to be the duo of Jennifer & Erica. It will take a lot more than this to end this friendship! No matter how hard you try to get rid of me...

Lisa: My 1st dear Recruiter - oh how the time has flown! I have truly enjoyed every minute we spent together as a team. We obviously spent the most time together than I have with any other team member. Your willingness to let me learn from you; I will always remember. We were truly a solid team, and we took Alaris & Pyxis by storm! Everytime I see a trucker, I will always remember "Roger that." I want to continue to see your beautiful blue eyed boys grow, so do not forget about me in your xmas card list each year! You have such a great heart, and are such a dear friend. THNKS for everything!

Mandi: I know that we didn't get to work with each other directly for too long, but I did enjoy all of the time we spent working together over the years! Your stories make me laugh, and I will always remember the random stranger knocking on your condo door convinced your condo was for rent with you still living there. It makes me laugh just thinking about it! Through your mentoring me, I learned SO much! Thank you for providing me with that opportunity, and guiding me through the ways of being a great recruiter. I learned alot from you allowing to sit in your phone screens & kick off calls - and because of you, I will be ready for the next step when that does happen. Good luck in your tennis matches! Don't hurt yourself!

Susan: Admit it, we've been through a lot! When we lost our 3rd coordinator, the world fell on you and I to keep the momentum up and keep up with the pace! We did a FABULOUS job if I do say so myself. We truly had each others backs, and I couldn't have asked for a better person to backup my work while I was on vacation. I knew that my work was always in good hands, and that I would come back to no disasters. You are such a great person, and I will miss working with you on a daily basis. Take CareFusion by storm!

Michele: What can I say?! Over the past year, you and I have had a whole lot of fun since we were the only two sitting in the same building! Thank you for checking up on me when you knew I was going to throw my laptop in the duck pond and keeping my head level. You are a fantastic person with a fanstastically huge heart. I am not sure that Mr. & Mrs. Moore will ever leave our memory - but I will tell you that they are one of my favorites! I will see you around Delaware, don't be a stranger!

Gwen: I consider myself SO lucky that I was able to travel with you and meet you in person! I truly would not have wanted to do that little journey alone and am so lucky that I was able to travel with you. Though we have had some trying times, I thank you whole heartedly for always having my back. We were a great team and strong - when it came right down to it. We needed that strength, and it was something we both learned through our times. Being able to work with you has been truly a joy, and you a person who I can trust with with anything.

I love you all, I will miss you all, and I hope that you all find happiness in all of your new ventures. You will always be my friends, and will always be my co-workers even though we do not work together anymore. I am beyond sad that we can no longer be that stellar team that we once were, but know that each time I think of you all - I will toast my glass to our memories and to great friendship! *xoxoxo*